Healthy Medicine Soothes People and Planet

As we try to find more sustainable ways to live, one thing to consider is healthy medicine.

Alternative medicine refers to medical practices that are not considered to be part of conventional or mainstream medicine. The term encompasses a wide range of practices, including herbal remedies, acupuncture, massage, homeopathy, nutrition, and many others. Alternative medicine is often used to complement conventional medicine, with the aim of improving overall health and wellbeing.

One of the main principles of alternative medicine is the belief in a holistic approach to health. According to the Institute for Holistic Health Studies at Western Connecticut State University,

“Holistic health is an approach to life that considers multidimensional aspects of wellness. It encourages individuals to recognize the whole person: physical, mental, emotional, social, intellectual, and spiritual.”

The individual is an active participant when developing a treatment plan. The focus is often on the underlying causes of illness, rather than just the symptoms.

Herbal remedies are one of the most common forms of alternative medicine. Plants and their extracts can treat a wide range of health conditions, from simple colds to more serious illnesses. There are 1,300+ medicinal plants used in Europe, 90 percent from wild resources; in the US, 118 of the top 150 prescription drugs are based on natural resources. Herbal remedies and medicinal plants have been used for thousands of years, and many are still used today because of their effectiveness.

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that uses thin needles to stimulate specific points on the body. It is believed to unblock energy pathways, known as meridians, and promote healing and balance. Acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including pain, anxiety, and infertility.

Massage therapy is another well-known form of alternative medicine. It involves manipulating the muscles and soft tissues of the body to relieve pain, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. Massage therapy can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, from tension headaches to back pain.

Nutritionists can play a significant role in health and wellbeing. The nutrients in organically grown foods can help treat many ailments and help maintain better overall health. Healthy food depends on the quality of the soil where it is grown, as well as the growing and harvesting techniques used.

These approaches to healthy medicine are in balance with nature and involve fewer man-made treatments. What healthy medicine alternatives do you incorporate into your wellness routine?